Brockville council weighs new hotel tax, transit cuts, procurement changes
Brockville city council met on June 23 to consider several policy changes, including a new tax on short-term accommodations, updates to purchasing rules, and reductions to transit service. The agenda also included traffic-sign modifications and a closed-door discussion about property acquisitions downtown. Official minutes from the meeting have not yet been published, so the items listed remain proposals that council debated but have not formally approved.
Proposed municipal accommodation tax
Council reviewed a proposed bylaw (047-2026) that would introduce a Municipal Accommodation Tax on hotel stays and other short-term lodging. Such a tax, common in many Ontario municipalities, is typically charged per night and collected by operators. The revenue would be used to support local tourism and marketing efforts. No vote tally or rate was provided in the agenda.
Transit system changes
The agenda included modifications to the city’s transit system to remove low-usage stops. While the specific stops were not listed in the available summary, the change is intended to streamline bus routes and improve efficiency. Residents who rely on those stops may face longer walks to alternative locations.
Procurement policy update
Council considered updating the city’s procurement policy to comply with the provincial Buy Ontario Act. The change would affect how the city purchases goods and services, potentially giving preference to Ontario-based suppliers. The agenda did not specify details of the policy language.
Traffic bylaw amendments
A proposed traffic-bylaw amendment would modify signage on Liston Avenue near Steacy Gardens. The exact change—whether new stop signs, speed limits, or other restrictions—was not detailed in the summary.
Closed session on land acquisition
Council moved into a closed session to discuss the potential acquisition of properties at 36-46 King Street W. Real-estate negotiations are exempt from open-meeting rules under the Municipal Act. No public details were released.
Coming up
No upcoming meetings are scheduled in the next 14 days, according to current records. Residents can check the city’s website for future agendas and minutes as they become available.